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Miami Auto Show: Top 5 Must-See Attractions & Insider Guide
2018 Miami Auto Show: The Ultimate Guide to Can't-Miss Attractions
--FIRST CAR LIST HERE--
Show Spotlight: After a hurricane-forced hiatus, the Miami International Auto Show returns with revolutionary concept cars, hot new SUVs, and rare classic vehicles - all set against Miami Beach's glamorous backdrop.
When: October 5-13, 2018
Where: Miami Beach Convention Center (1901 Convention Center Dr.)
Hours: Weekdays 2-11 PM, Saturday 10 AM-11 PM
Tickets: $15 (adults), $6 (ages 6-12), Free (under 5)
1. Genesis Essentia Concept: A Glimpse at Automotive 2030
This showstopping electric coupe represents Genesis' vision for the future of luxury performance:
- Facial Recognition Entry: Doors open when the car recognizes your face
- Lightweight Construction: Full carbon fiber chassis
- F1-Inspired Tech: Racing-derived suspension system
- Blistering Performance: 0-60 mph in 3.0 seconds (estimated)
While purely conceptual, the Essentia hints at Genesis' ambitious plans to compete with established European luxury brands. Its dramatic butterfly doors and minimalist interior showcase how technology and design might evolve in coming decades.
2. 2019 Cadillac XT4: GM's Luxury Answer to the Compact SUV Craze
Cadillac finally enters the booming premium compact SUV segment with the XT4, featuring:
- Turbocharged Power: 2.0L 4-cylinder (237 hp, 258 lb-ft)
- Spacious Interior: Best-in-class rear legroom (39.5 inches)
- Cutting-Edge Tech: Available augmented reality navigation
- Miami-Ready: Optional all-wheel drive starts at $38,790
Show attendees can test drive the XT4 on Miami Beach streets - a perfect environment to evaluate its blend of luxury and practicality. Early reviews praise its comfortable ride and intuitive infotainment system, though some note the engine could be more refined.
3. Off-Road Royalty: Jeep Wrangler, Ford Ranger & Chevy Blazer
Miami's show floor features three highly anticipated utility vehicles:
2018 Jeep Wrangler JL
- New 2.0L turbo engine option (270 hp)
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Improved fuel economy (up to 22 mpg highway)
- Retains removable doors and fold-down windshield
2019 Ford Ranger
- Returns after 7-year absence
- 2.3L EcoBoost engine (270 hp, 310 lb-ft)
- Competes directly with Toyota Tacoma
- Available FX4 Off-Road Package
2019 Chevrolet Blazer
- Sporty midsize crossover (not body-on-frame)
- Optional 3.6L V6 (305 hp)
- Available RS trim with blacked-out styling
- Starting at $29,995
--TOP ADVERTISEMENT HERE--
4. Test Drive Extravaganza: 40+ Vehicles Available
The Miami show offers one of the most extensive test drive programs of any auto show, allowing attendees to compare vehicles back-to-back without dealership pressure. Available test drive vehicles include:
Chevrolet
- Camaro Convertible
- Bolt EV
- Traverse
- Silverado
Cadillac
- XT4
- Escalade
- CT6
Mazda
- MX-5 Miata
- CX-9
Nissan
- Leaf
- Titan
Volkswagen
- Atlas
- Golf GTI
Pro Tip: Arrive early on weekdays for shortest wait times. Test drives operate until one hour before closing.
5. Classic Car Collection: Automotive Time Capsule
The show's classic car exhibit features two extraordinary collections:
American Muscle Legends
- 1968 Ford Shelby GT350
- 1960 Chevrolet Corvette
- 1980 DeLorean DMC-12
Havana Classics
This special exhibit showcases pre-embargo American cars preserved in Cuba, including:
- 1954 Buick Roadmaster
- 1950 Pontiac Catalina
- 1955 Chevrolet Bel Air
- 1958 Mercedes-Benz 300d (Fidel Castro's personal car)
These automotive survivors tell a fascinating story of mechanical ingenuity, having been maintained for decades without access to original parts.
--SECOND CAR LIST HERE--
Insider Tips for Attending
- Best Times: Weekday afternoons (2-4 PM) for smallest crowds
- Parking: Convention Center garage fills quickly - consider rideshare
- Photography: Morning light best for outdoor vehicle displays
- Special Events: Check schedule for manufacturer presentations
- Comfort: Wear walking shoes - show floor spans 500,000 sq ft
The 2018 Miami International Auto Show offers something for every automotive enthusiast, from futuristic dream cars to nostalgic classics, all set in one of America's most vibrant cities. Whether you're seriously shopping or just love cars, this show delivers an unforgettable experience.
Klash
Last Updated On Oct, 07-2025